“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” — John 13:35, CSB
It’s Thursday of Holy Week.
The cross is just hours away. But before the nails, before the trial, before the garden…we find Jesus gathered at a table with His disciples. Not with crowds or miracles or teaching in the temple. But with a meal. With intimacy. With love.
This is the night Jesus takes the bread and breaks it. “This is my body, given for you.”
He lifts the cup. “This is my blood, poured out for the forgiveness of sins.”
And then, He does something unexpected. He kneels. He washes feet. He looks each of them in the eye—even Judas—and says, “Love one another. Just as I have loved you.”
That’s what Maundy Thursday is all about. The word Maundy comes from the Latin mandatum—meaning commandment. A new commandment: Love one another.
This kind of love isn’t just emotion. It’s action. It’s service. It’s sacrifice. It’s the kind of love that gets low to wash dirty feet. It’s the kind of love that holds nothing back—even life itself. It’s how we remember Him. And it’s how the world will know we belong to Him.
Drawing #Closer to God Through Worship & Communion
Today, we remember. Not just what Jesus did—but why He did it. Out of love. For us. And we remember who we’re called to be—people marked by that same kind of love.
If you’re able, take communion today.
- You can share it with family, friends, or fellow believers.
- Or take it quietly, just you and the Lord.
- You don’t need perfect elements. Crackers or sliced bread and juice work just fine.
What matters is the heart behind it—a moment to pause, to worship, and to remember. As you take the bread, remember His body—broken for your healing, both physical and emotional. As you take the cup, remember His blood—poured out for the forgiveness of your sins.
And let this be more than a ritual. Let it be a recommitment to the command: To love like Jesus. To serve like Jesus. To remember Jesus.
A Thursday Practice: Worship & Communion
- Pause – Create a quiet space. Light a candle. Play worship music.
- Reflect – Read John 13 or Luke 22. Let the story settle in your soul.
- Receive – Take communion slowly. Let every bite and sip remind you of His love.
- Respond – Ask: “Who is God calling me to love and serve like Jesus today?”
“…Do this in remembrance of me.” — Luke 22:19, CSB
Let’s draw #Closer to God by remembering the One who knelt to serve us—and by loving others the way He first loved us.
Celebrate the Resurrection with Hope Church! Find more information about Holy Week and Easter events here.